[TenTec] Rebuilding slipping string dials

[Dr. Gerald N. Johnson, P.E.]

When a string dial doesn't repeat its in need of attention. Its simpler
than the Tentec PTO.

In table radios, the problem usually was stiff grease on the slider
guide or stiff oil in the idler pulleys. Less often but possible, the
dial cord gets polished. The pulleys generally loosen up with a drop of
sewing machine oil on their shafts. The grease on the slider generally
softens with some rubbing with that same oil. Fresh white lubriplate
usually keeps things sliding smoothly. A polished dial cord needs
replacement. Some would try dipping it in melted rosin or dusting with
rosin. I've not have good success with that. In particularly stiff
drives, I've roughened the shaft surface sliding a course rat tail file
sideways along the shaft to scar it. That helps a lot and is less lumpy
than a layer of cloth medical tape.

73, Jerry, K0CQ

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